MOSQUITO CLOSED BETA
VISUAL QUALITY
The second iteration, Closed Beta model, focused on improving visual quality where the Closed Alpha model lacked. A “Magpul-Esque” style direction was established by applying large chamfers, defined curvatures, and patterned features. It was at this point that the design began to deviate from the original "AK conversion kit" idea and become its own unique identity. Previously incorporated aftermarket parts were replaced with 3D printed solutions to eliminate compatibility and availability issues.
CHANGES FROM CLOSED ALPHA
Inspired by modern firearms, the model geometry was refined by adding chamfers and cuts in the right places for a more striking tactical appearance.
NEW SPLIT SELECTORSA new clever solution that replaces the original AK lever selector with more convenient and reliable switch selectors.
NEW 3D PRINTED GRIPReplacing the original AK grip with a custom 3D printed design meant one less part to source.
CLOSED ALPHA VS CLOSED BETA
NEW INSPIRATION
A visual design study was done on modern firearms from manufacturers such as Magpul, Q, MDT, Noveske Rifleworks, Salient Arms International, and Taran Tactical Innovations. Common themes seen in these firearms are deep chamfers along major contours, lateral cutouts, and other repeating geometric patterns.
These features were applied to the previous Closed Alpha model, transforming its primitive appearance into one with greater visual depth and a refined tactical aesthetic. The visual design of the Closed Beta model continues to hold up strongly today compared to the other revisions ahead of it.
SELECTOR REDESIGN
A critical flaw with the previous AK-style selector was the lack of torsional stiffness with a 3D printed lever, resulting in constant yielding when driving a metal cog on the gearbox to switch firing modes.
A clever solution was introduced by replacing the previous single-sided selector lever, which proved unreliable, with two internally geared switch-style controls. Splitting the mechanism in this way significantly improved reliability and remained unchanged through to the final release. Additionally, the redesign eliminated sourcing and compatibility issues associated with traditional selector components, making the platform more accessible and easier to reproduce.
An unexpected challenge during development was the graphical communication of firing modes. On one side of the controls, "semi-automatic" and "fully-automatic" were simply denoted using one bullet and three bullets, respectively. On the other side, there is "safe mode" and "fire mode" which were more difficult to communicate. Originally, "S" and "F" were used. However, both of those letters can be mistaken for fire controls on the other side, "semi" and "full". As such, inspiration was drawn from road signs, where an open circle indicates open fire, and a filled circle represents no firing allowed.
GRIP DESIGN
Standard aftermarket AK grips were too large and visually unappealing on the MOSQUITO. Therefore, a new 3D printed grip was introduced to achieve a slimmer profile and better visual cohesion with the design.
The ergonomics of the grip was refined through iterative testing, including a comfortable position for the thumb on the side of the grip. Initially, it was a recessed slot, but this did not work as the walls became too thin in certain areas. This was changed to be a slope where the lower section is thicker to accommodate the gearbox motor. A textured triangular pattern was added to the side for improved grip and detailing. The grip angle was also made to be more vertical compared to standard AK grips to improve handling and ergonomics, as the MOSQUITO is shouldered closer than a typical rifle.
This 3D printed grip design also eliminated another part to source, making the design easier to build and reducing overall cost.
MODERN AESTHETIC
Inspired by Magpul's M-LOK attachment system, rectangular cutouts were made to the top cover to create a modern tactical aesthetic. Due to their prominent forward placement, achieving the correct visual balance was critical, as this area strongly defines the character of the model. Through iterative testing, it was found that two longer uninterrupted cutouts had the most balanced appearance, whereas three smaller ones felt visually crowded. To avoid legal trouble, these cutouts do not follow the exact M-LOK specification and are purely aesthetic.
Additoinal patterned cutouts were made on the magwell and grip to improve handling and add fine detailing. The edges on the magwell were rounded out rather than having sharp chamfers, creating a more refined appearance. The base of the magwell was also flared out to improve magazine insertion and removed the blocky look of the Closed Alpha model.
Finally, deep chamfers were made along the upper and lower edges of the main body, completing the tactical visual language of the design.
FIELD TESTING
Similar to the Closed Alpha model field test, the Closed Beta model performed exceptionally well on the airsoft battlefield, holding its own against much bigger and more expensive platforms, and by no means lacking in firepower. The new selector design proved to be extremely reliable and much quicker to operate than the previous AK style lever. It also garnered a lot of head-turning attention due to its appearance and blistering run-and-gun performance.
An issue that was not accounted for was the flexibility of the top cover. As shown in the images, a sight was mounted on top, which swayed side to side during fast-paced movements. This was a result of the compliant locking mechanism on the rear of the top cover that, while convenient to operate, lacked sturdiness.
The battery PEQ box solution under the barrel was also not ideal, as the wires and connector was exposed to potential damage and became a top priority to remove for the next iteration.
